What Kraft Slough Offers

Kraft Slough is a shallow, weedy backwater system in central Wisconsin that holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish in water that rarely exceeds 8 to 10 feet deep. The slough sits off the main channel of a larger river system and fills with aquatic vegetation—cattails, coontail, and lily pads—that create ideal habitat for predators hunting in low-light conditions. If you fish here, you're working a different kind of water than the classic deep-hole walleye lakes of northern Wisconsin; Kraft Slough rewards anglers who understand shallow-water structure and are willing to fish early morning, late evening, or overcast days when the fish move shallow to feed.

The slough's character changes with the season. Spring brings spawning walleye moving into the shallows, summer pushes fish deeper and into the thickest weed cover, and fall sees another shallow-water bite as water temperatures drop. Winter access depends on ice thickness and conditions, which vary year to year. The real draw here is that it's less crowded than the major lakes in the region, and the fish can be aggressive if you hit the timing right.

Key Takeaways

  • Kraft Slough is a shallow, weedy backwater system best fished during low-light periods—early morning, late evening, or cloudy days—when walleye and pike move into feeding zones.
  • Spring and fall offer the most consistent shallow-water bite; summer requires fishing thicker vegetation and deeper slots within the slough.
  • Jigs tipped with live minnows, soft plastics, and shallow-running crankbaits work well in this vegetation-heavy environment.
  • A Wisconsin fishing license is required; check current regulations for season dates, bag limits, and any special restrictions on this particular water.

Seasonal Patterns and Best Times to Fish

Spring (April through May) is when Kraft Slough shines for walleye. As water temperatures climb into the 40s and 50s, spawning walleye move out of the main river channel into the slough's shallow bays and vegetation edges. Fish the outside edges of weed lines, channel breaks, and any hard-bottom areas you can locate with a depth finder. Early morning and dusk are prime, but on overcast days the bite can extend throughout the day. Jigs in the 1/8- to 1/4-ounce range tipped with live shiners or crawlers work consistently.

Summer (June through August) shifts the pattern. Water temperatures warm, and walleye retreat to deeper slots within the slough, often suspending in or just below the thickest weed cover. This is when pike become more active in the shallows. Focus on the deepest holes you can find—often 8 to 10 feet in this system—and fish the weed edges aggressively. Soft plastics rigged on jigs or Texas rigs, and shallow-running crankbaits that tick through vegetation, produce well. Night fishing or very early morning gives you the best chance at walleye during the heat.

Fall (September through October) brings another excellent shallow-water window. As water cools, walleye and pike move back into the shallows to feed heavily before winter. The weed cover begins to thin, making fish easier to locate. This is often the most productive time for both species. Fish the same shallow edges and bays you worked in spring, but expect larger fish and more aggressive strikes.

Tackle and Technique for Shallow, Weedy Water

Kraft Slough demands tackle that handles vegetation without fouling constantly. A 6- to 6.5-foot medium-power spinning rod paired with 8- to 10-pound braided line gives you sensitivity and the ability to set the hook through weeds. Fluorocarbon leaders (6- to 8-pound test) reduce visibility in the clear, shallow water. Jigs remain the foundation here—1/8- to 1/4-ounce heads work best, and you'll want a mix of colors: chartreuse, white, and natural patterns like crawdad.

Live bait is effective and simple. A 3- to 4-inch shiner or fathead minnow on a jig works for walleye; larger shiners (4 to 5 inches) and live crawfish attract pike. Cast along weed edges, work the jig with short hops, and pause frequently—walleye in shallow water often hit on the drop. Soft plastics—4- to 5-inch shads and crawdad imitations—rigged on 1/4-ounce jigs cover water faster and let you search for active fish. Crankbaits in the 2- to 4-inch range, especially shallow runners that reach 3 to 5 feet, work well during low-light periods and can trigger aggressive strikes from pike.

Weed management is part of the game. If you're fouling constantly, move to cleaner water or switch to a weedless rig—a Texas-rigged soft plastic or a jig with a weed guard. Don't be afraid to fish right through the vegetation; walleye and pike hunt in the thickest cover, especially in summer.

Access, Regulations, and What to Bring

Kraft Slough is accessible by boat, and you'll need a Wisconsin fishing license to fish legally. Check the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) website or the current Wisconsin fishing regulations guide for season dates, bag limits, and any water-specific rules. Walleye and pike seasons, minimum sizes, and daily limits vary, so confirm before you go. Some backwater systems have special regulations designed to protect spawning habitat or manage populations, so it's worth a few minutes to verify.

Bring a shallow-water depth finder if you have one—it helps you locate the deeper slots and weed edges that hold fish. A net is useful for pike, which can thrash in shallow water. Insect repellent is essential in spring and early summer; backwater systems attract mosquitoes. Wear polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the shallows, especially during low-light periods when you can actually see walleye cruising the edges.

Water levels in backwater systems can fluctuate, especially after heavy rain or during spring runoff. If you're unfamiliar with the slough, consider going with someone who knows it, or fish during higher water when navigation is more forgiving. Local bait shops near the slough can give you current conditions and recent reports.

Pike Fishing in Kraft Slough

Northern pike thrive in Kraft Slough's shallow, weedy environment. Pike hunt by sight and ambush, so they're most active during low-light periods and when water is slightly stained. Early morning and late evening are prime, but overcast days produce all day. Pike in this system run from 18 inches to the mid-30s; trophy fish are possible but not common.

Fish larger baits and lures than you would for walleye. A 4- to 5-inch live shiner or sucker works well; cast it near weed edges and let it swim. Larger soft plastics—6- to 8-inch shads—and shallow-running crankbaits trigger aggressive strikes. Pike have sharp teeth, so use a wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader (at least 20-pound test) to avoid bite-offs. Expect pike to hit hard and run into the weeds; keep your drag set appropriately and be ready to apply pressure to keep them out of the thickest cover.

Panfish and Other Species

Bluegill, crappie, and perch inhabit Kraft Slough alongside walleye and pike. These fish are easier to catch and make for good action when the walleye bite is slow. Small jigs (1/16- to 1/8-ounce) tipped with live minnows or waxworms work well. Panfish often school in slightly deeper pockets within the slough, so a depth finder helps. They're also more active during midday when walleye retreat, so if you're fishing the slough all day, panfish can fill the slow hours.

Perch can reach respectable size in backwater systems and are excellent table fare. Fish the same jigs and live bait you'd use for panfish, but focus on slightly deeper water—5 to 8 feet—and harder-bottom areas if you can locate them. Perch often school tightly, so if you find one, more are nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day to fish Kraft Slough?

Early morning (first two hours after sunrise) and late evening (last two hours before sunset) are most productive for walleye and pike. Overcast days extend the bite throughout the day. Midday is typically slow for walleye but can produce panfish and perch in deeper pockets.

Do I need a boat to fish Kraft Slough?

Yes, Kraft Slough is a backwater system best accessed by boat. Check with local bait shops or the WDNR for public boat launch locations and current access information. Some backwater areas have shallow entry points; a smaller boat or canoe may be easier to navigate than a large bass boat.

What size walleye and pike are typical in Kraft Slough?

Walleye typically range from 12 to 18 inches, with fish over 20 inches less common but possible. Pike run from 18 inches to the mid-30s; trophy fish are rare. Panfish and perch are usually 6 to 10 inches but can grow larger in this productive system.

Can I fish Kraft Slough in winter?

Ice fishing is possible when ice is thick enough, but conditions vary year to year. Check current ice thickness and safety conditions before heading out. Local bait shops and the WDNR can advise on whether the slough is safe to fish in any given winter.

What regulations apply to Kraft Slough?

Wisconsin fishing regulations apply, including season dates, bag limits, and minimum sizes for walleye, pike, and panfish. These can vary by water body, so check the current WDNR regulations guide or contact a local bait shop to confirm what's in effect for Kraft Slough before you fish.